Be thankful for holiday safety Published Nov. 20, 2007 By Senior Airman Josh Moshier 28th Bomb Wing Public Affairs ELLSWORTH AIR FORCE BASE, S.D. -- As Airmen and their families gather for Thanksgiving Nov. 22, they are reminded by base leadership to keep safety paramount, as always, while preparing their day's meals. "The holidays are for spending time with family and friends," said Col. Scott Vander Hamm, 28th Bomb Wing commander. "I encourage all our Airmen to enjoy this time with their loved ones, but to enjoy it safely." Among the biggest concerns of the wing safety office during the Thanksgiving holiday is frying turkeys. "I know fried turkey tastes the best," said Staff Sgt. Brandon Cruz, 28th Bomb Wing safety office. "I just hope everyone who plans on frying a turkey does a little research on how to do it safely." The safety office provided some general tips for proper turkey fryer safety: - Never use turkey fryers on wooden decks, garages or indoors - Place fryers on a flat surface to prevent tipping - Use well-insulated potholders or oven mitts - Never leave the fryer unattended - Do not overfill fryer - Ensure the turkey is completely thawed; water and oil don't mix - Keep an all-purpose fire extinguisher nearby In addition to these tips, the safety office preaches common sense over the long weekend. "If you have to stop and ask yourself if something is safe or not, don't do it," Sergeant Cruz said. The holiday season can be a very busy and stressful time for everyone, so the wing commander reminds everyone to enjoy this time off. "On behalf of myself, Joanna and my many children I wish all members of Ellsworth a very happy Thanksgiving weekend," Colonel Vander Hamm said.